Drivers and shoppers along North Andover's main commercial corridor will face a summer of lane shifts, police details, and heavy equipment.

MassDOT's Thursday, July 23, construction update for the Route 114 Corridor Improvements project outlines several new phases of work hitting the 2.2-mile stretch of Turnpike Street between Waverly Road and Willow Street simultaneously.

Shared-use path excavation begins Monday, July 27

Crews will start digging and grading for a separated shared-use path between the Andover Bypass and Willow Street as early as Monday, July 27, according to the update. Work will begin at the Andover Bypass and move east toward Willow Street, continuing through August. The finished path will connect local streets, businesses, and Merrimack College.

Four properties fenced off for demolition

At the Route 114 and Hillside Road intersection, temporary construction fencing is going up around 582, 591, 599, and 607 Turnpike Street ahead of demolition expected this summer. MassDOT's June 1 update had projected demolition at those addresses in mid-to-late July; the latest notice confirms site preparation is underway but does not give a specific demolition date.

A new traffic signal will eventually be installed at the Turnpike Street and Hillside Road intersection as part of the broader project.

Median removal, utilities, and test pitting

The center median along Route 114 is being removed and intersections temporarily paved, with that work continuing through September. Temporary traffic control devices will replace the median.

Utility crews are saw-cutting roadway surfaces, installing water insertion valves, and relocating utility poles. Gas utility relocation is expected to begin in late August.

Test pitting for soil sampling and underground utility investigation will also continue at various corridor locations through September.

What drivers and businesses should expect

All construction is scheduled weekdays, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. MassDOT said lane shifts, traffic control devices, and police details may be required along Route 114 within the project limits. The agency advised drivers to expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution. Access for pedestrians and emergency services will be maintained throughout.

The project is a state highway reconstruction managed by MassDOT, separate from North Andover's own road maintenance programs. Construction began in late April 2026. No overall completion date has been announced.

How to stay informed

Residents can email the project team at [email protected] or call the hotline at (978) 906-8694. Updates and traffic advisories are available at mass.gov/route-114-corridor-improvements-north-andover.